Seal & Seabird watching & photography boat safari - Capture Estonia Nature and Photography Tours

Seal & Seabird Watching Boat Safari in North Estonia 🦭🪶

A small-group marine wildlife experience near Tallinn — observing seals, seabirds and Baltic coastal nature from a purpose-built observation boat.

This Seal & Seabird Watching Boat Safari offers a rare opportunity to experience Estonia’s northern coastal wildlife from the sea. Departing from Kaberneeme harbour, just a short drive from Tallinn, the tour explores the islets and coastal waters of Kolga Bay, one of the best areas in North Estonia for observing grey seals and seabirds in their natural habitat.

The safari is designed for nature-oriented travellers, birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and curious explorers who value respectful observation, expert guidance and a calm, immersive experience on the Baltic Sea.

Seal Seabird watching and photography boat safari

Why This Wildlife Boat Safari Is Different

Unlike standard sightseeing boat trips, this safari is operated with a specialised wildlife observation boat and led by guides with strong backgrounds in nature interpretation, photography and marine research.

Key advantages of the experience include:

Flexible routing based on weather, sea conditions and wildlife activity

Quiet approach using a silent electric bow engine to minimise disturbance to wildlife

One-way mirrored windows that allow observation of shy animals without alarming them

Small group size (up to 5 guests) for a focused, unhurried experience

These features significantly improve the chances of meaningful wildlife encounters, while keeping the experience ethical and environmentally responsible.

What You May See on the Safari

🦭 Grey Seals

The northern Estonian coast is home to grey seals, the Baltic Sea’s largest marine mammal. Seals are often seen resting on rocky islets or swimming near the boat, particularly in calmer conditions. Their behaviour is entirely natural — sightings are common but never guaranteed.

🪶 Seabirds & Coastal Birdlife

Kolga Bay and its surrounding islets support a wide range of seabirds and coastal species, depending on season. Common observations may include:
– Cormorants and sea ducks
– Gulls and terns
– Other coastal and marine bird species using the islets for resting and feeding
The tour is suitable for both birdwatchers and non-specialists who simply enjoy observing wildlife in a natural setting.

🌊 Baltic Seascapes & Islets

In addition to wildlife, the safari offers striking views of rocky islets, open sea and North Estonian coastline, providing a strong sense of the region’s maritime landscape.

Who This Tour Is For

This safari is especially well suited for:
– Nature lovers interested in marine and coastal ecosystems
– Birdwatchers focusing on seabirds and coastal species
– Wildlife and nature photographers looking for stable, low-impact observation platforms
– Small private groups or families seeking a memorable outdoor experience
– Travellers looking for something beyond standard city tours
This tour is not a high-speed adventure ride and not a guaranteed wildlife encounter. It is designed for guests who appreciate patience, observation and real nature.

📅 Practical Information

Duration: approx. 4 hours

Departure point: Kaberneeme harbour (approx. 30 minutes from Tallinn)

Group size: up to 5 guests

Season: best from spring to early autumn, depending on sea conditions

Guide: experienced nature guide with wildlife and photography background

Please note:
Wildlife behaviour is unpredictable. Seal sightings are frequent but cannot be guaranteed, as this is a genuine wild-nature experience, not a controlled environment.

Our sealwatching and marine nature tours are guided by highly experienced marine experts and nature educators: Mati Kose – wildlife photographer, guide, nature tourism developer and marine conservationist; Ivar Jüssi – seal researcher and conservationist and marine tour guide, Marko Poolamets – wildlife photographer, nature education promoter and nature guide.

Best Time for Seal & Seabird Watching

Spring & early summer: active seal behaviour, seabird breeding and migration
Summer: calmer seas, long daylight and pleasant conditions
Early autumn: seabirds and coastal species on the move
The tour route and focus are adapted to seasonal conditions to maximise observation opportunities.

Booking & Enquiries

Experience Estonia’s marine wildlife in a quiet, respectful and immersive way — close to nature, yet easily accessible from Tallinn.
📧 info@capture-estonia.ee
📞 WhatsApp / Phone: +372 5684 3743

This tour is weather dependent and in case of stronger wind we have to cancel the trip!

Longer trips (incl. Sunrise and sunset times) as well as in combination with other activities are possible. Contact us for special requests!

The boat can accommodate up to 5 passengers at a time.

Be aware that your cloths might get wet or mildly dusty!